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Genes Reveal Elevated Risk of Stroke

Variations found in millions of people may help drugs find targets

By Nick McMaster, Newser Staff

Posted Apr 16, 2009 11:54 AM CDT

(Newser) – Two genetic variations that increase the risk of stroke are present in an unexpectedly large proportion of the population, Reuters reports. Scientists analyzed the genomes of over 19,000 people, looking for single-letter changes in DNA in those who had experienced ischemic strokes. The two variations they identified, located near genes already implicated in stroke, each raised the chance of stroke by 30%.

At least one of the variations is found in 20% of whites and 10% of African Americans. "This is a first step in unraveling the genetic contributions of this debilitating disease," said a study author. Further isolating the variations will help scientists develop more precisely targeted treatments for stroke, the third-most-common cause of death in the US, researchers said.

Scientists have identified genetic factors that greatly increase the risk of stroke. (Shutterstock)

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Genes Reveal Elevated Risk of Stroke

Variations found in millions of people may help drugs find targets

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genome • stroke • genetic code • transient ischemic strokes • genetic abnormalities • stroke risk

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More Newser Stories

Depression Tied to Stroke Risk in Women

But researchers doubt link is direct

Coffee May Lower Women's Stroke Risk

A cup a day keeps the doctor away: study

Diet Soda's Dark Side: Heart Attacks, Strokes

But more research needed, some caution

Children of Divorce Face Doubled Stroke Risk

Study shows link between childhood stress, health

Chocolate Linked to Lower Risk of Heart Attack, Stroke

Small amount of dark chocolate daily lowers heart attack, stroke risk

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Genes Reveal Elevated Risk of Stroke

Variations found in millions of people may help drugs find targets

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

genome • stroke • genetic code • transient ischemic strokes • genetic abnormalities • stroke risk

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Depression Tied to Stroke Risk in Women

But researchers doubt link is direct

Coffee May Lower Women's Stroke Risk

A cup a day keeps the doctor away: study

Diet Soda's Dark Side: Heart Attacks, Strokes

But more research needed, some caution

Children of Divorce Face Doubled Stroke Risk

Study shows link between childhood stress, health

Chocolate Linked to Lower Risk of Heart Attack, Stroke

Small amount of dark chocolate daily lowers heart attack, stroke risk

About Us

Site

Newser By Users

Community

Site Maps

Tools

More News

What is Newser?